Common Phrases & Conversation

Essential phrases for everyday communication in Afaan Oromo.

Greetings & Courtesies
The first words you should learn for polite interactions.
Afaan OromoEnglish
AkkamHello / How are you?
NagaattiGoodbye
GalatoomiThank you
DhiifamaSorry / Excuse me
EeyyeeYes
LakkiiNo
ToleOkay / Alright
Rakkoo hin qabuNo problem
Basic Questions
Learn how to ask for basic information.
Afaan OromoEnglish
Maqaan kee eennu?What is your name?
Akkam jirta?How are you doing?
Eessaa dhufte?Where are you from?
Gargaarsi si barbaachisaa?Do you need help?
Kun meeqa?How much is this?
Yoom?When?
Maaliif?Why?
Simple Conversation Example
See how these phrases can be used in a basic conversation.

Akkam!

"Hello!"

Akkam, nagaa. Ati akkam jirta?

"Hello, I am fine. How are you?"

Ani nagaa, galatoomi. Maqaan kee eennu?

"I'm fine, thank you. What is your name?"

Maqaan koo Lensa jedhama. Kan kee hoo?

"My name is Lensa. And yours?"

Bonsa. Wal baruun keenya gammachiisaadha.

"Bonsa. It is nice to meet you."

Anis akkasuma!

"Me too!"